Clearwater Beach

This is one of the best beaches on Florida's Gulf Coast. The extra wide, mile-long, white, soft sand provides plenty of recreational opportunities for the public and enough parking for easy access. Lifeguards are on duty year-round, and near the pier entrance are well-maintained picnic shelters, shaded playground equipment, open-air restrooms and concessions.

Pier 60: The concrete pier that juts into the Gulf is the centerpiece of Clearwater and is called Pier 60.. The late-afternoon, early-evening daily sunset celebration, that was inspired by the sunset-watching riutal at Mallory Square in Key West, has been a regular fixture since 1995. Called "Sunsets at Pier 60," they feature art and craft vendors and a variety of "entertainers" — clowns, jugglers, singers and bands. The gathering lasts two hours before and after sunset and is a great night of family fun.

Facilities: This beach is full service with lifeguards, concessions, picnic tables, restrooms and showers